10 Things To Do in January to Simplify Your Life

January can be a long month, with many of us experiencing colder, darker days and the after-effects of a merry holiday season. Here are 10 things to do in January to simplify your life as one year closes and the new year begins.

WHY JANUARY IS A GREAT MONTH TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE AND GET ORGANISED

January is a brilliant month to take stock of your life and get organised. It’s the start of a brand-new year, and there’s something about that clean slate feeling that just screams possibility.

After the buzz of December – with all its holidays, family gatherings, and general chaos – January feels calm and reflective, like the world has taken a big, deep breath. I know I usually breathe a sigh of relief too after the Christmas chaos!

It’s the perfect moment to pause and think about where you’ve been and where you’d like to go.

1. A Natural Time for Reflection

First off, there’s no denying that the shift into January feels like a natural time for reflection. It’s not just the calendar flipping over; it’s the chance to say goodbye to the previous year’s messiness and welcome a fresh start. The long, dark evenings are ideal for some quiet thinking time.

You can sit down with your favourite drink, a notebook, and start mapping out what’s important to you. No pressure, no rush – just you and your thoughts. Reflecting on what went well (and what didn’t) in the past year can give you great insight into how to move forward. You could try these Winter journal prompts to help you get started.

2. Starting the Year With Goals and Good Intentions

Planning to get organised in January is also so satisfying because everything feels possible. It’s not about perfection but about setting realistic goals. You’ve probably got a sense of what needs tweaking – whether that’s your work-life balance, fitness routine, or even how you manage your finances.

Here are some ideas to help you create a better work-life balance if your current one feels a bit off-balance!

January is a great month to focus on what really matters to you and decide how to prioritise it. It’s like planting seeds for the rest of the year, and there’s a lovely feeling of hope and opportunity that comes with that.

3. Feeling Motivated By Others

Another reason it’s such a good month for getting your act together is that everyone else is doing it too. Social media, the internet and Pinterest are all flooded with ideas to help you get your life in order this year. There’s a collective energy about January – people are setting resolutions, decluttering their homes, and trying to get back on track after the festive indulgences. You don’t feel alone in your efforts.

Whether it’s joining a gym class, taking up a new hobby, or simply getting your calendar in order, there’s a sense of camaraderie. This can be really motivating instead of feeling like you’re going it alone.

4. A Quiet Time to Do More Planning

What’s more, January is a quieter month socially for many of us. After the whirlwind of December, things slow down. There are fewer parties, fewer obligations, and more time to focus inward. It’s an ideal moment to carve out some space for yourself.

You can use this time to tackle things that might have been sitting on the back burner – like organising your wardrobe, setting up a new budgeting system for your finances, or even creating a meal plan for the weeks ahead.

5. Starting With a Clean Slate and Feeling Optimistic

Finally, January is a month of optimism. Sure, it’s cold and often a bit grey, but there’s something about the promise of a new year that feels inherently uplifting. You’re not weighed down by the baggage of the year yet; you’re just stepping into it, full of potential.

Taking time now to review your life and get organised sets the tone for everything to come. It’s not about getting everything perfect straight away, but about starting the journey in the right direction.

“January is the first month of the year, a perfect time to start all over again, changing energies and deserting old moods, new beginnings, new attitudes.”

Charmaine J Forde

So, now that we understand why January is such a great month to be assessing your life and getting ready to make changes, what’s next?

If you’re looking to re-focus and create a little more ease and a lot less stress, perhaps you might like to try some of the ideas I’m sharing here and 10 things to do in January to simplify your life…

10 THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

I hope these ideas give you some inspiration and practical tips on ways to bring a little calm, simplicity and joy into your life this month.

1. Choose your word for the year

This is a fun little exercise which encourages you to reflect on what you hope this year will hold for you. I like to choose words that are inspiring, motivating, encouraging and give me scope for growth and change throughout the year. What will you choose as your word?

Here are some examples and why they might appeal to you:

• Balance: If you’ve been feeling stretched too thin or like one area of your life has been taking over, this word could help you focus on creating harmony. It’s a gentle nudge to prioritise work and rest, fun and responsibility, or even your physical and mental health. Given the name of my blog, I’m all for more balance in our lives!
• Growth: Perfect if you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s personal development, learning a new skill, or progressing in your career, “growth” is a word that encourages you to keep evolving.
• Simplify: This is a brilliant choice if life has been feeling overwhelming. It could mean decluttering your home, streamlining your schedule, or just focusing on what really matters. Less chaos, more calm.
• Courage: If fear or self-doubt has been holding you back, “courage” is a powerful word to remind you to take bold steps. It’s about embracing challenges, trying new things, and having faith in yourself.
• Joy: Sometimes we forget to prioritise happiness, don’t we? “Joy” can guide you to seek out what truly lights you up – whether that’s small, everyday pleasures or big, exciting adventures.
• Health: This word works if you want to focus on feeling good inside and out. It could mean improving your diet, getting more active, taking care of your mental health, or even just getting better sleep. It’s all about self-care.
• Focus: If distractions have been pulling you in a million directions, this word is a reminder to concentrate on what’s most important. It could apply to work, personal projects, or even just being more present in your relationships.
• Adventure: Feeling stuck in a rut? “Adventure” invites you to shake things up. It doesn’t have to mean travelling the world (although it could!); it might just mean trying new things, exploring your town, or saying yes to more spontaneous opportunities.
• Peace: This is a lovely one if you’re craving a bit of calm. It could inspire you to let go of unnecessary stress, create a soothing home environment, or even work on forgiveness and letting things go.
• Kindness: Choosing “kindness” is a reminder to be gentle – with others and with yourself. It might mean being more patient, volunteering, or even just talking to yourself in a way that feels supportive rather than critical.

2. Declutter your home

Decluttering is such a simple concept, but it can make a massive difference in your life. It’s all about clearing out the things you no longer need, use, or love to create more space – not just in your home, but in your mind too. A clutter-free space feels calmer, more organised, and honestly, it’s just easier to live in. Plus, once you start, you’ll be amazed at how addictive it can be!

The benefits are huge. First, it saves you time – no more rummaging through drawers to find your keys or that jumper you swear you saw last week. It also reduces stress because let’s face it, a messy space can feel overwhelming. On a deeper level, it can even improve your mental clarity. When your surroundings are tidy, your mind feels less chaotic. And if you’re someone who’s trying to be more eco-conscious, decluttering can help you think more intentionally about what you bring into your life going forward.

Getting started today is easier than you might think. You don’t need to tackle the whole house in one go – start small, even just with 2 minutes. Maybe it’s a single drawer, a shelf, or your handbag. Pick one area, take everything out, and ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I love it? If the answer is no, let it go – recycle, donate, or bin it if it’s beyond saving.

Set a timer for 15 minutes and see how much you can do. You’ll feel accomplished even after a short burst of effort, and that success will motivate you to keep going. Honestly, the hardest part is starting. Once you do, you’ll wonder why you didn’t begin sooner! So, what’s the first thing you’re going to declutter?

You might enjoy these ideas for 20 things to declutter in February if next month’s goal is to start decluttering!

3. Simplify Your finances

Simplifying your finances and managing your money more intentionally might sound a bit daunting, but honestly, it’s such a game-changer. The idea is to strip away unnecessary complexity, focus on what truly matters, and make your money work for you instead of the other way around. It’s about taking control, reducing stress, and creating a clearer path to your financial goals.

The benefits are massive. First, it makes life easier. With fewer accounts, subscriptions, or random expenses to track, you’ll spend less time worrying about where your money is going. It can also save you money because when you’re intentional, you cut out wasteful spending and make room for what’s really important – like that dream holiday or building up your savings. Plus, managing your money in a simple, intentional way gives you peace of mind. No more dread when you check your bank account or when the bills come in!

So, how do you get started today? Start by taking stock. Make a list of your income, expenses, and debts. Look at your bank statements and subscriptions – are you paying for things you don’t use? Cancel them. Next, consider consolidating accounts or debts where possible.

Then, set a clear budget that reflects your priorities. It doesn’t have to be rigid; just allocate money for essentials, savings, and the fun stuff. And if you don’t already, set up automatic payments for bills and savings – it’s a lifesaver and stops you from accidentally overspending.

Finally, take it one step at a time. You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. Simplifying your finances is a process, but each small step adds up to a clearer, more intentional money life. So, can you start with that budget today? Grab a coffee, pick a quiet time and sit down for 10 minutes to get started.

4. Declutter The Toys

Decluttering toys can feel like a mammoth task, especially if your home is overrun with them, but trust me, it’s worth it! It’s not about taking away all the fun; it’s about creating a space where the toys your kids love are easy to find and enjoy. Plus, fewer toys often mean less mess for you to clean up (a welcome bonus!).

The benefits are fantastic. For starters, it makes playtime so much better for the kids. When they’re not overwhelmed by too many choices, they tend to engage more deeply with what they have. It also helps teach them about valuing their belongings and, over time, can even encourage tidiness. For you, it means less stress – no more stepping on stray building blocks or scrambling to tidy before guests arrive. And let’s not forget how good it feels to reclaim some floor space!

Getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, like with one toy box or a single shelf. Gather everything from that area, and go through it together with your kids if they’re old enough. Ask questions like: Do they actually play with this? Is it in good condition? Does it suit their age and interests? Broken toys can be binned, and the ones they’ve outgrown can be donated or passed on.

To make it easier going forward, consider rotating toys. Keep a selection out and store the rest away, swapping them every few weeks. It keeps things fresh without adding clutter. Also, think about creating zones for specific types of toys – like a craft area or a spot for puzzles – so everything has its place.

Honestly, once you start, you’ll feel so much lighter. Ready to tackle that first toy pile?

5. Try my free Personal Growth Challenge

Personal growth is all about becoming the best version of yourself. It’s the process of learning, improving, and stepping into your potential – whether that’s in your relationships, career, mindset, or even how you approach life’s challenges.

The beauty of personal growth is that it’s unique to you. It’s not about comparing yourself to anyone else or wondering what they may be thinking of you but about focusing on where you want to grow and how you can get there.

The benefits are massive. First, it builds confidence. When you’re actively working on yourself, you start to realise just how capable you are. It also helps you handle life’s ups and downs better – whether it’s learning how to communicate more effectively, developing better daily habits such as healthy eating, or tackling self-doubt.

Personal growth can improve every area of your life because you’re investing in you. And there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing progress, even in small steps.

Getting started is easier than you might think. Begin by identifying one area of your life where you’d like to grow. Maybe you want to improve your time management, be more present in your relationships, or start a fitness routine. Once you’ve chosen your focus, set a small, achievable goal to get the ball rolling. For example, if you want to read more, start with 10 minutes a day rather than aiming to finish a whole book in a week.

Reflecting is also key. Take time to journal or just think about where you are now and where you’d like to be. Small, consistent actions are what lead to lasting growth.

The best part? Personal growth doesn’t have to be perfect or linear. It’s about progress, not perfection. So, what’s one small thing you could do today to start growing? I have a suggestion if you’re stuck…

Why not take my FREE 30-Day Personal Growth Challenge. This is a completely free challenge designed to get you thinking about yourself, your life and what direction you’d like it to go in. Learn more about the challenge and join in now.

6. Declutter your Schedule and Simplify Your calendar

Decluttering your schedule and simplifying your calendar might not sound as satisfying as tidying up a messy cupboard, but it can be a total life-changer. Think about it: how often do you look at your week and feel overwhelmed by how much you’ve got going on? Simplifying your schedule isn’t about doing less for the sake of it; it’s about making space for what really matters and creating a bit of breathing room in your life.

The benefits are huge. First, it helps reduce stress. When your calendar isn’t packed to the brim, you’ve got more mental space to focus on each task or event. You’re less likely to feel rushed or burnt out. It also means you can be more present, whether that’s at work, with family, or during your downtime. Plus, a simpler schedule often highlights what’s truly important to you, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or just having a quiet evening to yourself. Here are some tips on how to make more time for what matters to YOU.

Getting started today is easier than you’d think. Begin by reviewing your calendar for the week or month ahead. Ask yourself: Are all these commitments necessary? Do they align with your priorities? If not, it might be time to let some things go – say no to that meeting that doesn’t need you or postpone a catch-up if you’re stretched thin.

Next, think about what you’d like to add. Could you block out time for yourself? Maybe even schedule in a rest day or two? Also, look for ways to streamline – group similar tasks together or set recurring reminders for routine activities so you’re not constantly juggling.

Remember, simplifying your calendar isn’t about doing less but doing better. Ready to make some space for what really matters?

7. Give up something

Taking on a challenge to give up something – whether it’s alcohol, sugar, excessive shopping, or anything else – can be such an empowering experience. It’s not about punishment or deprivation; it’s about taking a step back, reassessing your habits, and seeing how life feels without that thing for a while. Think of it as a way to reset and take control, rather than letting the habit control you.

The benefits can be amazing. If you’re cutting out alcohol, for instance, you might notice better sleep, clearer skin, and a sharper mind. Giving up sugar could lead to more stable energy levels and fewer cravings. And if you’re reducing your spending, you’ll likely feel more financially secure and free from the guilt that comes with overdoing it. Beyond the physical or financial perks, challenges like these often help you learn more about yourself – how you cope with cravings or boredom, and what really makes you happy.

Getting started today is simple, but it helps to be intentional. First, decide what you want to give up and why. Write it down if it helps! Having a clear reason will keep you motivated when things feel tough. Next, set a time frame – maybe a week, a month, or even just a few days to see how it goes.

Preparation is key. If you’re cutting out sugar, clear your cupboards of tempting snacks. If it’s shopping, unsubscribe from those marketing emails and delete shopping apps. And make a plan for what you’ll do instead – whether it’s healthier snacks, a new hobby, or free activities to replace spending.

The first few days might be tricky, but stick with it – you’ll feel so proud of yourself for taking on the challenge. Ready to give it a go?

8. Set goals

Setting goals is such a powerful way to focus your energy and make progress towards the life you want. It’s about giving yourself a sense of direction and something meaningful to work towards, whether it’s personal, professional, or even just for fun. Goals can be as big as starting your own business or as simple as reading more books this year. The beauty of it is that they’re totally personal to you.

The benefits of setting goals are massive. First, they give you clarity. Instead of feeling like you’re drifting through life, you’ve got a plan. Goals also boost motivation – there’s nothing quite like that buzz you get from ticking something off your list. Plus, working towards something gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which is brilliant for your confidence and mindset. Even if you don’t hit every goal, the process of striving for them helps you grow and learn.

Getting started today is easier than you think. Begin by thinking about what you’d like to achieve – be it short-term (in the next month or so) or long-term (over the next year or beyond). Ask yourself: What’s really important to me right now?

Once you’ve got a few ideas, make your goals specific and actionable. Instead of saying “get fit,” try “go for a 20-minute walk three times a week.” Breaking goals into smaller steps makes them feel more manageable and gives you little wins along the way.

Finally, write them down! Seeing your goals on paper or a digital note keeps them front of mind. And don’t forget to review and refresh your goals regularly and celebrate your progress – no matter how small.

So, what’s one goal you’d love to start working on today?

And, just as a side note, I always prefer setting goals instead of failing at New Year’s resolutions!

9. Best memories from last year

Looking back on your best memories from last year is such a lovely way to reflect and set yourself up for a more meaningful year ahead. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about celebrating the moments that made you happy and thinking about how you can create more of them. Big or small, those special memories remind you of what really matters in life and what makes your heart feel full.

The benefits are huge. For starters, reflecting on the good stuff helps you feel grateful, which is such a boost for your mood and outlook. It can also give you clarity about what you value most – whether it’s quality time with family, achieving a personal goal, or even just the joy of a quiet walk in nature. When you know what brings you happiness, you can be more intentional about weaving it into your plans for the year ahead.

Getting started today is simple and fun. Grab a notebook, your phone, or even a few sticky notes. Take 10 minutes to jot down your favourite memories from last year. Think about the times you laughed, felt proud, or were totally at peace. Who were you with? What were you doing? If you have photos, even better – they’re a great way to jog your memory.

Once you’ve gathered your list, look for patterns. Did you feel happiest when you were outdoors, or maybe when you tried something new? Use those insights to shape your plans for the year ahead. For example, if you loved a weekend away with friends, why not schedule another one?

It’s such a simple exercise, but it can really help you create your best year ever – a year that’s full of joy and meaning. So, what’s your favourite memory from last year?

10. Tick off your monthly checklist

And, lastly, something very practical and designed to help you feel more organised and less stressed and overwhelmed – not just in January but every month of the coming year. To help us simplify and streamline our To Do lists, I created a simple checklist of things to do each month.

It’s just a little tool to help you plan, prepare and make things easier for the month ahead. You can read the checklist here and get your free printable too!

Pop your details in the box below so I know where to send your copy!